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Hi guys. We have ordered my wife's X3 already and had to make a difficult decision. She doesn't like the feel and fit of the sport seats so we couldn't do a sport package. (Ugh). After buying the necessary niceties, we had a little money left over. We had to choose between the upgraded motor (35i) vs the DHP package. Would have loved to order both, but couldn't. Horrible dllemna. If you HAD to choose between the motor or the DHP, which would you have chosen?

The 35i is offered with equipment that is optional on the 28i. So the 35i would provide more power and standard features. Likely though your wife is going to appreciate the smoother ride provided by the dynamic dampers. Only you folks can decide.

Thats an easy one. 100% go bigger engine over DHP but you can't add DHP without the sport package so there really is no choice. The sport seats are great so not sure why your wife didn't like them. It sounds like you already placed your order so you know this. You made the right choice with a 35i. Is this what you ordered?

and of course the better fuel economy with the 28T! When the $5.00 a gallon gas arrives you will appreciate that better than an extra half second I suspect.

For us, the fuel economy issue didn't come into play while deciding. The 28i gets 21 city / 28 highway. The 35i gets 19 city / 26 highway. This was close enough to not be a decision factor in our analysis.

I own the 2.8, but would choose the 3.5. Bigger engine includes extra options besides the power. Resale buyers will consider the car engine specs, so long term you would also benefit financially with this choice.

I have the 35i and would recommend it. I actually get 27 Mpg on the highway and 20-21 in stop and go so fuel ratings definitely shouldn't be a factor as you said. The 35i is a full second faster too, but hey, who's counting? Also, almost forgot to mention the sound of the 35i vs the 4 banger engine. No comparison!

If I had to choose I would definitely go DHP. Makes the truck feel fantastic, when you put it in sport mode it's like a totally new vehicle. The N20 engine is fantastic, people are saying the power rating is more like 270hp.

Thanks guys. I enjoy and appreciate all the feedback. We wound up getting the 35i. Agreed that the extra performance and sound of the motor made it too hard to pass up. I really liked the standard 35i wheels also. Getting next week at the factory in SC for PCD. the 35i also gets your the sports steering wheel even if you don't have the sports package.